A content analysis of choral students' participation perceptions: implications for lifelong learning

The purpose of this study was to describe students' perceptions of their high school choral experience. The participants in the study were 57 choral musicians attending a north Texas high school. Each participant was asked to complete a broad writing task: to write a letter to the incoming varsity choir members in order to help the musicians to transition to the new choral environment. The writings were analysed for consistent content topics. Six overarching themes emerged: (1) social; (2) musical; (3) director-related; (4) effort/fun; (5) memories; and (6) concerns. Conclusions cite the need for an understanding of student perceptions so that transitions to new ensembles can be made easier through the joint efforts of high school and community music ensemble directors.